My Stride

The end of mile four was difficult for me. Yesterday, I breezed through the first three and thought, "Hey, maybe I'll go for nine today". Number four knocked the enthusiasm right out of me. The trail was soggy and there were puddles to navigate along the way. It seemed as if I was suddenly working harder than I needed to be.

I heard another runner coming up on my left and as he passed me, I noted that he was at least six feet tall and that his legs were obviously much longer than mine. His stride outstretched mine significantly and he didn't even seem to notice the puddles. I wished I was taller.

But I'm not. I try very hard to keep positive thoughts in my head while I run. I can't use my running time to solve problems, because focusing on conflict or difficulty seems to take away from the joy of the run itself, and when I'm finished I don't feel as good as the times when I run in a more meditative fashion. Realizing that I was comparing myself to another runner, I mentally pictured the landmarks coming up on the course and checked them off a little list in my head as I passed them. It was enough to pull me away from thinking about my five foot six frame which is not going to get any taller any time soon.

Running through mile six was easier, except for a little nag from my left knee. It will be ok. Just ice and a couple days off.

Last night I was talking to a friend about how often other friends seem to be checking in on me lately. They know that my life changed a while back. A shift occurred and a void was created. Concerned friends call or email just to see how I'm getting along. It's funny, but I'm to the point of saying, "I'm ok! Really! I'm standing up to my own height, and my own situation. I'm hitting my own stride."

I appreciate the concern and I love my friends dearly. My point is that I am accepting of the situation. I cannot change what is. It's been what seems like miles now. But I have more to go, so I will.